Brașov's Hotel ARO to transform into Romania's first Hyatt Property

The Aro Hotel in Brașov will become Romania’s first Hyatt property, while the company which currently owns Aro Palace SA has declared earlier this week that it formally signed a letter of intent to pursue a franchise agreement with Hyatt Hotel Corporation.

This strategic move will integrate the Aro Palace Hotel in Brașov into the esteemed international family of Hyatt hotels, operating henceforth under “Hyatt Regency, Aro Palace Brașov,” notes local publication Biz Brasov.

Transylvania Investments holds an 85% ownership stake in Aro Palace SA. The hotel stands as a pivotal asset within the Aro Palace SA portfolio, alongside the Capitol Hotel. The latter, currently undergoing extensive renovations, is scheduled for a grand reopening in 2025 under the Mercure Brasov Centre brand.

Chicago-headquartered Hyatt Hotels Corporation stands as a beacon of global hospitality excellence, boasting a portfolio encompassing over 1,300 hotels and all-inclusive properties across 76 countries and six continents, as of September 30, 2023.

Historical background of Aro Hotel

Inaugurated in 1939, just prior to the outbreak of World War II, the Aro Palace Hotel was conceived by architect Horia Creangă, descendant of the renowned Romanian writer Ion Creangă. The hotel’s moniker, “Aro Palace,” pays homage to the Romanian Insurance Company, which provided the financial backing for its construction.

During the communist era, the hotel underwent a name change to “Carpați,” reverting to its original title only post-1990. This period also witnessed plans for hotel expansion to accommodate growing demand. Construction on the new wing commenced in 1963, concluding in 1965, representing an architectural triumph of the era. However, this achievement was marred by the demolition of a Reformed church, sacrificed to make way for the modern edifice. Architect Iancu Rădăcină, in deference to Horia Creangă’s vision, designed the new wing to showcase Brașov’s historic landmarks, including the Council House, the Black Church, and the entirety of the city’s picturesque old town, visible from the Citadel.